As no surprise, most visitors come to this national park to see the lake. Its blue color is inconceivably vibrant, and park rangers are frequently asked where the color comes from. The simplest answer is the precipitation: from snow and rain. Here are the best ways to explore the beautiful sights.
Crater Lake scenic drives
The easiest way to see the lake is along the Rim Drive, a 33-mile road that encircles the lake. It features scenic overlooks, such as Discovery Point, Waterman Overlook, Phantom Ship Overlook, or Pinnacles Overlook, for unbeatable views of the lake. For a guided option, the Crater Lake Trolley runs the same route. This option is only available during the summer season, from July until September.
Walking, hiking, and cycling
Casual walkers can stroll along the Rim Village Promenade, a walkway that continues for a third of a mile. It is dog-friendly and frequented by families with younger children.
Hiking is always a top way to explore any national park, and Crater Lake offers a range of hiking options. Worth noting, all trails in Crater Lake National Park are over 4,000 feet above sea level. Sun Notch Trail is an easy 0.8-mile trail with views of the Phantom Ship, a jagged island in the lake. Plaikni Falls is a simple 2-mile trail through a forest to a waterfall, located off East Rim Drive. The Annie Creek Canyon Trail is a 1.7-mile trail near the Mazama Village.
The 1.6-mile Watchman Peak Trail is extremely popular at sunset thanks to its incredible lake views. The 3.6-mile Garfield Peak Trail starts at Crater Lake Lodge and is more challenging with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet. The Pacific Coast Trail (PCH) is an alternative option along Crater Lake, running for 33 miles inside the park and featuring three trailheads.
Cycling is another way to explore the park for those experienced in high-elevation rides. The Rim Drive is open to cyclists, and mountain bikers can use the Grayback Drive. For tips and regulations, the park’s cycling page offers insights.
Ranger programs
During the summer, park rangers offer ranger programs covering a range of topics from volcanic activity to wildlife. The programming is free and doesn’t usually require advance reservations. Simply inquire at a visitor center for the daily schedule.
Just for kids, the Junior Ranger Program is a fun, educational activity. Families can pick up the free booklet at one of the visitor centers and complete the required activities, like word searches and fill-in-the-blank sentences. Kids who complete the booklet and recite the Junior Ranger Oath receive a souvenir Junior Ranger badge.
Stargazing
Stargazing is another popular in-park activity. Thanks to limited development in the area, there is great visibility. You can head to the back patio of the Crater Lake Lodge for stargazing and a glass of wine. The overlooks, including Sinnott Memorial Overlook, are also popular.
Wizard Island
A highlight on the southern shore is Wizard Island, a summit named after its cone-like shape. However, Crater Lake boat cruises are on hiatus while the Cleetwood Cove Trail to its shore is renovated. The marina at the bottom of the trail will be inaccessible for a multi-year rehabilitation project from summer 2026 through 2029.